Pell Grant Qualifications Calculator

The Federal Pell Grant Program provides need-based student grants to low-income undergraduate students and teachers pursing their post- baccalaureate degree. Students must attend one of approximately 5,400 participating postsecondary institutions that receive Title IV funding in order to qualify for a Pell Grant. Title IV funding colleges meet the rigorous requirements and qualifications that must be met in order to receive Federal Student Aid from the government. If your school is Title IV, then you must meet the below qualifications to qualify for a Pell Grant.

1.Considered Low Income

2.Have a Low EFC score

3.Be at least a Part-time student

4.Pursuing first undergraduate degree or pursuing a graduate teacher certification or license.

Students that receive Pell Grant funding are considered low-income and usually need the additional money to pay for their school expenses. Participating institutions either credit the Federal Pell Grant funds to the student's school account, pay the student directly (usually by check) or combine these methods. Your college financial aid office will disburse an aware letter indicating how much you will receive in Pell Grant award amount. Pell Grant distribution checks are sent within the first few weeks of the beginning of the new school semester. Students must be paid at least once per term (semester, trimester, or quarter); schools that do not use formally defined terms must pay the student at least twice per academic year.

To determine your Pell Grant amount, we’ve provided a calculator to help you determine your award amount. To use the Pell grant calculator, simply enter your EFC number, the school's cost of attendance for one year and choose an enrollment status. These figures are based on the payment and disbursement schedules for Pell Grant awards. The EFC number is also known as your Expected Family Contribution score and can be found in your SAR (Student Aid Report) that you will receive from the Department of Education. The COA is the Cost of Attendance or the amount of money it will cost as either a full or part time student. The COA is based on school tuition and other school related expenses.

Students must complete the FAFSA or Free Application for Student Aid in order to become eligible for a Pell Grant. Students will receive their EFC score once they’ve completed and submitted their FAFSA by the deadline.